Licensed Practitioner/ Animal Assisted Therapist

6 days ago


Bethesda, United States 4S Full time

Location- Bethesda, MD

Job Type: Full-time

A licensed practitioner/animal-assisted therapist is needed for a full-time on-site position in Bethesda. This position requires service dog training experience or utilization in a program setting, and state licensure, and at least two years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), occupational therapist (OT), or related clinical field. Most of the work will occur at a military medical facility in Bethesda, Maryland.

Responsibilities:

  • Screen service members/veterans for eligibility to participate in the program,
  • Work with the service animal training instructors (SATI) to structure training sessions that map to clinical outcomes,
  • Support and observe one-on-one instruction and teach small group classes to these volunteer Warrior Trainers.
  • Maintain a clean, safe environment for the dogs and humans at the program sites.
  • Work with the SATI to match animal training activities to the desired clinical outcomes for wounded warriors and document the sessions and progress in the client's electronic medical record
  • Observe/participate in one-to-one instruction and provide and support small group instruction on service dog training to volunteer Warrior Trainers recovering from wounds of war (e.g., Post-Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, and other psychological or physical injuries) that will provide opportunities for patients to develop improved cognitive, behavioral, social, and emotional competencies.
  • Be eligible for credentialing and privileging at Walter Reed …(WRNMMC).
  • Provide clinically based interventions through the implementation of an animal-assisted therapy program.
  • Monitor and contribute to therapeutic service animal training sessions following program standards (e.g., based on positive methods of shaping behavior) and targeted therapeutic goals
  • Effectively use of the by maintain encounter reports, metrics, patient documentation, and program administrative documentation in the military electronic medical record (EMR) or other provided programs.
  • Provide ongoing assessments of the progress of the patient
  • Serve as an integral and critical clinical member of the integrated diagnostic, evaluation, treatment planning, education, and research teams
  • Coordinate with team members to ensure compliance with HIPAA, patient goals, research guidelines, medical record requirements, and installation regulations
  • The Animal Assisted Therapist shall be responsible for updating and implementing Standard Operating Procedures of the clinical practice, not limited to participating in Joint Commission (JCAHO) mock accreditation exercises and the Joint Commission audits
  • Responsible for advocating for the industry's use of service animals in clinically appropriate and therapeutic ways, (e.g., reducing isolation, recognizing stress cues), rather than uses that reinforce negative symptomology (e.g., blocking, security, intimidation).
  • Represent and serve as an advocate for Wounded Warriors and their families in obtaining services and support related to service animals for their individual and/or special needs; follow through on each case to ensure that provisions for ongoing social services are identified and initiated before the Warrior's return to the community.
  • Identify and refer families who may be candidates for the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) following DoD policies and procedures.
  • Travel with patients may be required as part of the staff for therapy activities.
  • Participate fully in the Peer Review Program for the specific licensed clinical specialty
  • Other duties as assigned



Required Experience, Skills, Background:

  • At least two years of clinical experience as an LCSW, OT, or a related clinical field with one (1) year of working experience as an animal-assisted therapist
  • Privilegs and credentialing at WRNMMC and/or FBCH, as applicable. Must comply with all NCR-MD credentialing requirements as detailed by the Executive Committee of the Medical Staff. This includes peer review of medical documentation, discipline-required continuing education, and all other requirements as detailed by regulations or directives.
  • Possess certification of completion of an industry-recognized Animal Assisted Therapy education program.
  • Demonstrated experience working with individuals with TBI and/or mental health conditions, an understanding of TBI and/or PTS/PTSD symptomology, and experience working in a healthcare environment.
  • Experience as a service dog trainer (candidates with experience training other types of assistance dogs or significant work as a professional dog trainer will also be considered).
  • Ability to effectively interact and work with Veterans who have experienced combat trauma and/or psychological health or physical injuries
  • Work with service animal trainers, program supervisors, and other care providers and provide clinical leadership in AAT sessions and all interactions with the care team.
  • Ability to instruct people with a variety of backgrounds and skill levels in the WCC training methodology and best practices for service dog training.
  • Must possess a state motor vehicle license enabling the operation of Government Owned Vehicles and a working vehicle and insurance. to transport rehabilitation patients and or staff as the mission requires
  • Possess and maintain current 2-year Basic Life Support certification approved by the American Heart Association
  • Comply with all NCR Directives including those associated with clothing and appearance (1000.7) and drug-free workplace (1010.01). Compliance with hospital computer security and HIPAA requirements is also required.

Additional Desirable Qualifications:

Comfort and experience in public speaking, presentations, and interacting with community members, sponsors, and public relations partners.

Benefits:

  • Employer Paid Medical Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 401k
  • PTO
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Physical Requirements:

Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods of time. The position may require typing and reading from a computer screen. Must have sufficient mobility, including but not limited to bending, reaching, and kneeling to complete daily duties in a timely and efficient manner. There is a possibility that due to parking availability and the location of work, walking moderate to long distances may be required. Possible lifting up to 90 lbs.

Please note: 4S-Silversword Software and Services LLC reserves the right to change or modify job duties and assignments at any time. The above job description is not all-encompassing. Position functions and qualifications may vary depending on business needs.

4S-Silversword Software and Services LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, creed, religion, medical condition, legally protected genetic information, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, or Vietnam era, or other eligible veteran status or legally protected characteristics.



  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Charles River Laboratories, Inc. Full time

    About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled Animal Care Specialist to join our Insourcing Solutions team at Charles River Laboratories, Inc.As an Animal Care Specialist, you will be responsible for sanitizing, maintaining, and repairing animal cagewash materials, ensuring a clean and safe environment for our animal subjects.Key ResponsibilitiesSanitize and...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States PRIORITY ONE, INC. Full time

    POSITION TITLE:Animal Care SpecialistLOCATION:Priority One, Inc.SUPERVISOR:Floor SupervisorJOB SUMMARY:Under the guidance of the Floor Supervisor, the Animal Care Specialist will exhibit proficiency in the handling of small animals, particularly rodents and rabbits. This role requires the ability to identify signs of distress or illness in animals and ensure...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Charles River Laboratories, Inc. Full time

    About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled Animal Care Specialist to join our Insourcing Solutions team at Charles River Laboratories, Inc.As an Animal Care Specialist, you will be responsible for sanitizing, maintaining, and repairing animal cagewash materials, ensuring a clean and safe environment for our animals.Key ResponsibilitiesFollow Standard...

  • Animal Caretaker II

    2 months ago


    Bethesda, United States Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research Full time

    Animal Caretaker II Job ID: req4030Employee Type: nonexempt full-timeDivision: Laboratory Animal Science ProgramFacility: NIHLocation: NIH Campus 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA The Frederick National Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and operated by...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Charles River Laboratories Full time

    About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Animal Care Specialist to join our Insourcing Solutions team at Charles River Laboratories. As an Animal Care Specialist, you will play a critical role in ensuring the health and well-being of our research animals.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide exceptional care and attention to our research...

  • Animal Caretaker II

    2 months ago


    Bethesda, Maryland, United States Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research Full time

    Animal Caretaker IIJob ID: req4030Employee Type: nonexempt full-timeDivision: Laboratory Animal Science ProgramFacility: NIHLocation: NIH Campus 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892 USAThe Frederick National Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and operated by Leidos...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States MEDSTAR HEALTH Full time

    MedStar Health PT - Bethesda, MDPhysical Therapist Assistant (PTA) - OutpatientJob SummaryProvides physical therapy services to patients including treatment, training, and equipment recommendations under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist according to the state requirements of which the provider is practicing. Minimum...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Charles River Full time

    For over seven decades, Charles River has united its workforce to contribute to the discovery, development, and secure production of innovative therapeutic solutions. By becoming part of our team, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the health and wellness of individuals worldwide. Regardless of your expertise in life sciences, finance, IT, sales, or...


  • Bethesda, United States Charles River Laboratories Full time

    For 75 years, Charles River employees have worked together to assist in the discovery, development and safe manufacture of new drug therapies. When you join our family, you will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people across the globe. Whether your background is in life sciences, finance, IT, sales or another area, your skills will...


  • Bethesda, United States Charles River Laboratories Full time

    For 75 years, Charles River employees have worked together to assist in the discovery, development and safe manufacture of new drug therapies. When you join our family, you will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people across the globe. Whether your background is in life sciences, finance, IT, sales or another area, your skills will...


  • Bethesda, United States Charles River Laboratories Full time

    For 75 years, Charles River employees have worked together to assist in the discovery, development and safe manufacture of new drug therapies. When you join our family, you will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people across the globe. Whether your background is in life sciences, finance, IT, sales or another area, your skills will...


  • Bethesda, United States HealthPRO Heritage Full time

    Overview At HealthPro Heritage we hire people who share our vision, who work diligently and provide the kind of care that will help change patient's lives for the better. As an Associate, your dedication and commitment deserve respect and recognition. If you're looking for a career and straightforward and realistic 'care' expectations, maybe it's time to...


  • Bethesda, United States HealthPRO Heritage Full time

    Overview: At HealthPro Heritage we hire people who share our vision, who work diligently and provide the kind of care that will help change patient's lives for the better. As an Associate, your dedication and commitment deserve respect and recognition. If you're looking for a career and straightforward and realistic 'care' expectations, maybe it's time to...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Vierra Management Full time

    Job OverviewPosition: Physical Therapist – In-house - Full-timeVierra Management is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Physical Therapist to enhance the quality of care provided to our residents. This role is ideal for individuals who are motivated, dependable, and possess a strong work ethic. Our in-house Physical Therapy team is committed to...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Vierra Communities Full time

    Job OverviewPosition: Physical Therapist - In-house - Full-timeAre you passionate about enhancing the quality of life for individuals through rehabilitation? Vierra Communities is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapist to become a vital part of our in-house therapy team. We value your expertise and commitment to providing compassionate care to our residents...

  • Nurse Practitioner

    3 months ago


    Bethesda, United States Nava Health Full time

    At NAVA, we promote an integrative approach to our clients’ health and wellness, and we have a team of seasoned practitioners working together to achieve life-changing results. We have six centers located in Maryland, Virginia, and Florida as well as a thriving telemedicine practice.We are looking for passionate practitioners committed to helping our...

  • Licensed Therapist

    4 days ago


    Bethesda, Maryland, United States Finding Clarity LLC Full time

    Job DescriptionJob Summary:Finding Clarity LLC is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Licensed Therapist to join our team. As a key member of our mental health services, you will provide high-quality therapy sessions to clients, working collaboratively with our team to ensure the best possible outcomes.Key Responsibilities:Provide individual, family,...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Johns Hopkins Medicine Full time

    Position Overview:We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Physical Therapist to provide exceptional care to patients in a home health setting. This role emphasizes individualized treatment and the importance of patient-centered care.Key Responsibilities:Deliver direct clinical services to patients, ensuring the application of the latest physical therapy...

  • Physical Therapist

    1 month ago


    Bethesda, Maryland, United States MEDSTAR HEALTH Full time

    MedStar Health PT - Bethesda, MDPhysical Therapist (PT) - Outpatient Ortho. (PT)Job SummaryThe Physical Therapist provides physical therapy services to patients, to include but not limited to screening and evaluation, treatment planning, treatment implementation, treatment re-assessment and revision, patient/client re-evaluation, discharge planning, and...


  • Bethesda, Maryland, United States Ninotch Full time

    Join Our Team as a Licensed Massage Therapist and EstheticianNinotch is on the lookout for skilled massage therapists or those with dual licenses in massage therapy and esthetics to become part of our professional team. This position offers a remarkable chance to operate within a wellness-focused environment dedicated to improving the health and well-being...